The “Tim Hug”, Guaranteed To Improve Your Lease On Life

I came across this video of Tim Harris and just had to share it. I hope it brightens your day as it did mine.

Tim Harris, the second of four boys, was born with Down syndrome and when he was growing up his parents saw the challenges that his disability presented socially. They started to think about his future and they made the choice to create a life as typical as possible.

Thanks to the faith and support of his parents, Tim has went beyond the typical and has made the world a little bit more extraordinary. Today, Tim is the happy, energetic and proud owner of Tim’s Place, a successful and very unique restaurant in Albuquerque, N.M.

Although the restaurant serves regular New Mexican fare, Tim’s Place is famous for its trademark special called the “Tim Hug” -— a “calorie-free” and “guilt-free” treat that, according to the menu description, guarantees to “improve your lease on life.”

“I love giving all the customers a hug because I want them to feel comfortable and connected and being around friends.” says Tim.

Tim’s Place, which calls itself the “world’s friendliest restaurant” opened its doors in 2010 and since then, Tim has given out more than 19,000 hugs. He keeps track using a Hug Counter.

According to CBS News, Tim Harris is probably the only restaurant owner with Down syndrome in the United States.

Tim — a college graduate — is also an accomplished Special Olympian, an excellent sailor and an experienced offshore fisherman. In high school, Tim was also elected homecoming king and Student Of The Year.

Harris and his family said they hope his example will serve to inspire others.

“I tell people with disabilities that they can follow their dreams,” Tim Harris

“Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.”